Al Ahli’s Double Victory: Semifinal Dream in the King’s Cup with Demiral and Tony in the Spotlight
28 November 2025
Match Snapshot
Al Ahli advanced to the King’s Cup semi-finals following a tight victory over Al Qadisiyah, decided in a penalty shootout on Friday night.
Beyond the win, the club celebrated major off-field news: a contract extension for Merih Demiral and the continued presence of Evan Tony, whose form helped fuel the cup run.
Transfers and Future
Demiral’s renewal is reportedly agreed in principle, with an official announcement expected in the coming days, ensuring the Turkish defender remains a key figure in the defense.
The 26-year-old defender, who joined from Atalanta in 2023, has featured 79 times for Al Ahli, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists, and has helped the team win the AFC Champions League Elite and the Saudi Super Cup in 2025.
Under coach Matthias Jaissle, Demiral has formed a sturdy pair in central defence with Rogier Ibanez, strengthening the team’s build-from-the-back approach and overall stability.
On Evan Tony, the report from Al Yaom indicates the forward will not depart during the upcoming winter window after a resurgence in form and regular first-team minutes.
The 29-year-old has tallied 41 goals in 59 appearances for Al Ahli and played a pivotal role in the club’s continental success.
Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with Tony, with talk of a potential move, but sources suggest Tony could accept a wage reduction to facilitate a deal if it materializes, though such a switch remains uncertain for January.
Cup Glory and Cup Record
Al Ahli continued their strong run against Al Qadisiyah, extending their lead to five wins in the last six meetings in the King’s Cup and denying a repeat of a 2014–2015 exit on penalties.
Media outlets highlight Jaissle’s effectiveness in knockout football, noting his 20 cup appearances across previous clubs—11 with Red Bull Salzburg and 9 with Al Ahli—resulting in 16 wins and just 4 losses, plus trophies in 2025.
Al Ahli’s semi-final berth continues the club’s tradition of advancing in the cup, keeping expectations high as they chase silverware this season.
Punchline 1: Demiral signs contracts with the precision of a sniper—one shot, and the deal is locked.
Punchline 2: Tony’s goal tally is so sharp that even the transfer gossip needs a Band-Aid for all the fingers clicking.
